Cast
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Marsha Mason
as Nora McPhae
Jason Robards
as Max Dugan
Donald Sutherland
as Brian Costello
Matthew Broderick
as Michael McPhae
Dody Goodman
as Mrs. Litke
Sal Viscuso
as Coach Roy
Panchito Gómez
as Luis
Charley Lau
as Charley Lau, boxing coach
Brian Part
as Kevin Costello
Billie Bird
as Older Woman
Tessa Richarde
as Blonde at Shoe Store
Jim Staahl
as Man at Shoe Store
Duke Stroud
as Teacher
Sondra Blake
as Teacher
David Morse
as Shoe Store Cop
Crew
Director
- Herbert Ross
Writer
- Neil Simon
Producer
- Herbert Ross
- Neil Simon
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Max Dugan Returns examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Herbert Ross brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1983, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Max Dugan Returns took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The film contains approximately 2468 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1983, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Max Dugan Returns shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike I Stand Alone, which focuses more on action than character development, Max Dugan Returns subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Meet the Parents and Crash explore similar territory, Max Dugan Returns stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 25, 1983
- Runtime: 1h 38m
